ALS

All voluntary movement in the body is controlled by the brain. Nerve cells in the brain, called upper motor neurons, initiate movement through the release of chemical signals called neurotransmitters. The signal is passed from the upper motor neurons to the lower motor neurons of the spine.

Nerve fibers extending from the spine, called axons, extend into the muscles. The point where the axons and muscle fibers connect is called the neuromuscular junction. When the signal reaches the neuromuscular junction, it causes the muscle to contract--resulting in voluntary muscle movement.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative disease of both the upper and lower motor neurons. As more and more motor neurons become affected, they are unable to send signals for movement to the muscles. Loss of voluntary muscle movement and coordination develop. Over time, muscle weakness and spasticity develop.

Patients are unable to perform routine activities, such as walking and getting out of a chair. Eventually paralysis develops, interfering with the ability to swallow, talk and breathe.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ALS. Death from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis usually occurs within 3 to 5 years from diagnosis.

Extraordinary Care: Med Center Nurse Goes Above and Beyond to Arrange Visit
When U.S. Army Specialist Dustin Goan received orders to serve in Afghanistan, he made sure he planned for a trip to Omaha to see his grandfather Charles Kubich before he deployed. Kubich is battling ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease; Goan wanted to be sure to visit his grandfather before beginning his nine-month assignment in Afghanistan. But nature had other plans.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
At Nebraska Medicine a multidisciplinary team of specialists work together in the management of ALS symptoms. A committed team, led by physicians who are specialists in ALS, review the needs of each individual to provide the best care possible. A dedicated nurse case manager is with each ALS patient every step of the way to ensure that patients and families are surrounded by the support and assistance needed to face the challenges of ALS, including referrals to trusted community resources.

Our Services

At Nebraska Medicine a multidisciplinary team of specialists work together in the management of ALS symptoms. A committed team, led by physicians who are specialists in ALS, review the needs of each individual to provide the best care possible. A dedicated nurse case manager is with each ALS patient every step of the way to ensure that patients and families are surrounded by the support and assistance needed to face the challenges of ALS, including referrals to trusted community resources.